KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Chaz Lanier’s dominant performance led No. 1 Tennessee to a commanding 76-52 victory over No. 23 Arkansas on Saturday, propelling the Volunteers to a 14-0 record and tying the 1922-23 team for the best start in program history.
Lanier poured in 29 points to spearhead Tennessee’s offense, with Igor Milicic Jr. contributing 13 points and an impressive 18 rebounds. Zakai Zeigler also made his presence felt with 12 points and 7 assists.
The Volunteers showcased their shooting prowess, with a 3-point percentage of 38.5% (10 of 26) almost matching their overall field goal percentage of 39.1% (27 of 69).
On the other side, D.J. Wagner led Arkansas with 17 points, while Boogie Fland added 12 points in a losing effort for the Razorbacks, who dropped to 11-3 on the season.
A key factor for Arkansas has been the emergence of freshman guard Karter Knox, who has stepped up in the absence of Johnell Davis due to a wrist injury. Knox’s improved scoring ability has provided a valuable offensive boost for the Razorbacks.
For Tennessee, coach Rick Barnes faces the challenge of managing the workload of his rotation, consisting of just eight players. The ninth scholarship player, freshman guard Bishop Boswell, has been hampered by a shoulder injury but is working towards a return to full fitness.
The pivotal moment in the game came midway through the first half when Lanier rattled off seven consecutive points, sparking a decisive nine-point run for the Volunteers that allowed them to establish a lead they never relinquished.
Rebounding was a key area of dominance for Tennessee, as they outrebounded Arkansas 27-12 in the first half and finished the game with a commanding 51-29 edge on the boards.
Looking ahead, Arkansas will aim to bounce back as they host No. 24 Ole Miss on Wednesday, while Tennessee faces a tough road test against No. 6 Florida on Tuesday.
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